Madagascar Hoopoe

Overview

The Madagascar hoopoe (Upupa marginata) is a bird species in the family Upupidae, endemic to Madagascar. It was previously classified as a subspecies of the hoopoe but was separated due to distinct vocalisations and minor plumage differences.

Identification

• Approximately 32 cm long with cinnamon-coloured plumage and a long, decurved bill.
• Wings are boldly barred in black and white, with the female appearing slightly duller and having less white on the wings.
• Features a long, cinnamon crest with black-tipped feathers that can be raised when the bird is alarmed.
• Produces a low cooing trill described as 'rrrrrooow', dropping slightly and lasting 1.5–2.5 seconds.

Habitat

Found throughout the north, west, central, and southern parts of Madagascar, it largely avoids the eastern region. Its natural habitat consists of subtropical or tropical dry forests, though it also inhabits forest edges, clearings, glades, savannah, pasture, and brushland.

Diet

The diet consists mainly of insects such as beetles, flies and their larvae, grasshoppers, and caterpillars. Foraging typically involves walking on the ground, probing soil and leaf litter, picking items off the surface, investigating crevices, and probing dung.

Did you know?

The species nests in deep cavities in trees that become messy and smelly before the young fledge, with one recorded clutch containing six bluish-grey eggs.